With the right data, business leaders can drive growth, optimize spending, and improve performance. Many organizations still struggle to effectively apply data insights. A 2022 study by NewVantage Partners found that 73.7% of organizations have appointed a chief data and analytics officer, but only 26.5% have achieved the goal of becoming data-driven companies.
As a result, data science professionals are in high demand. An online bachelor's degree in data analytics can offer the first step to becoming one of these professionals. In this major, students can learn about data governance, machine learning, data wrangling, and scripting and programming.
Find out more about the best data science undergraduate programs and discover the right degree option for you.
Popular Online Data Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Bachelor's in Data Science Programs
How We Rank Colleges And Bootcamps
ComputerScience.org ranks computer science degree programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. We also rank bootcamps and certificate programs. Our top priority is making sure you find the best possible fit for your education. We use up-to-date national statistics and focus on factors like return on investment, academic quality, and affordability.
Take a closer look at our rankings on our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect From an Online Data Science Degree
Online bachelor's in data science programs offer an interdisciplinary curriculum covering computer science, mathematical modeling, and statistics. Students gain data mining, predictive modeling, visualization techniques, and machine learning skills. They apply these abilities to analyze data, make predictions, and solve problems.
Full-time students who earn data science degrees online typically must complete 120 credits and take four years to graduate. Typical classes include foundations of data science, data visualization, data systems administration, and techniques of data science.
Some data science undergraduate programs include concentrations like health data, business, mathematics, or sociology. Schools may offer different types of data science degrees, including a bachelor of science, bachelor of arts, or bachelor of business administration.
How Is an Online Bachelor's in Data Science Different From an On-Campus Program?
In an online learning format, students may interact with their peers virtually. With asynchronous delivery, Synchronous online programs typically include real-time interactions with instructors.
An on-campus program, by contrast, typically includes in-person breakout groups where students can form strong connections. These students may also visit with instructors face to face, participate in job fairs, meet visiting industry experts, and network with alumni.
The following table compares online and in-person programs.
| Factor | Online Program | On-Campus Program |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Many universities now help students pay for a degree by offering online education at a lower cost. Private institutions charge $60,593 on average for an online degree. In 2020, 18% of online college students said they struggled with financial aid. | Private schools charge an average of $129,800 for an in-person degree. On-campus students may pay for housing, board, or transportation costs above tuition. |
| Degree Completion | Fully online students are less likely to complete their degree than students who take a mix of on-campus and online courses. | Fully on-campus students may be more likely to graduate than online or hybrid learners. |
| Scheduling | Asynchronous online programs offer flexible learning opportunities. | On-campus programs provide a series of scheduled classes. |
| Program Length | 120-124 credits | 120-124 credits |
Sources: Education Data; The Hechinger Report; Effects of Online Course Load on Degree Completion, Transfer, and Dropout Among Community College Students of the State University of New York
Online learners benefit from lower overall costs and flexible schedules. On-campus and hybrid students may be more likely to complete their degrees and earn higher GPAs than fully online learners. Though it offers many benefits, online learning requires considerable self-discipline and organization.
How Is an Online Bachelor's in Data Science Different From a Bootcamp?
Data science bootcamps provide a short, career-focused education with less emphasis on theory. A bachelor's in data science, by contrast, concentrates more on theory and general education requirements. Degree-seekers may have access to more resources and extracurricular activities than bootcamp enrollees. Finally, individuals with bachelor's degrees may also qualify to enroll in graduate degrees.
Delivery Formats for Online Data Science Degrees
Schools may apply different learning methods for online delivery. A 100% online degree occurs entirely from a distance without on-campus courses. These degrees may use asynchronous delivery, allowing students to study on their own schedules. Synchronous coursework uses pre-set class times, much like in a traditional setting.
Hybrid degrees require some in-person experiences. These requirements vary in length, potentially lasting a weekend or up to half of the degree's requirements. Students should select a format that best fits their calendar and learning style.
Accreditation for Online Data Science Degrees
Accreditation ensures that a school operates with integrity, hires qualified faculty, and provides students with adequate resources. Graduates of accredited schools can increase their chances for graduate school admission and pursue more options in the career marketplace.
An institutionally accredited school has received accreditation from a federally recognized regional body. It is the gold standard for higher education accreditation. Programmatic accreditation, provided by organizations like ABET, applies to specific departments or programs, signaling industry recognition and high.
How Much Will an Online Bachelor's in Data Science Cost?
The cost of a data science undergraduate program varies substantially by school. Factors that affect tuition costs include program format (online or in-person), institution type (public or private), and student residency (in-state or out-of-state).
In general, private universities charge higher tuition rates than public institutions. Students looking for affordable ways to earn a data science degree online should find public schools where they can pay in-state tuition. The National Center for Education Statistics reported that the average annual tuition and fees at public, four-year institutions as of the 2020-2021 academic year cost $9,375, compared to $32,825 for private, four-year schools.
Many online programs offer in-state or discounted rates to out-of-state learners. Distance education provides other opportunities to save money, including faster paths to graduation, free textbooks, and lower fees. Institutions offer financing options to help students pay for school, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Admission Requirements for a Bachelor's Degree in Data Science
Each school features its own unique admission requirements for undergraduate students. Some schools impose rather flexible requirements, admitting applicants with only high school diplomas or GEDs. In academically challenging programs like data science, however, schools often require more from candidates. For example, many set a minimum 3.0 GPA for recent high school graduates in addition to high SAT or ACT score requirements. Applicants usually need to submit professional recommendations, as well.
To ensure that applicants can successfully complete their data science training, some programs only admit those with backgrounds in mathematics and sciences. Candidates can demonstrate this through high school prerequisites, meeting specific grade requirements, or completing undergraduate courses in the area before declaring a major. Applicants with relevant professional experience may receive preference, as well. For more application information and assistance, Common App provides a thorough guide for the application process.
Why Get Your Bachelor's in Data Science Degree Online?
Earning a data science degree online offers benefits like scheduling flexibility, potentially lower costs, and opportunities to network with students around the country. Many programs use asynchronous delivery, which provides 24/7 access to materials. This method allows students to continue working full time and earning income while pursuing degrees. The ability to complete coursework with more flexibility provides freedom and opportunities to develop valuable time management skills.
Distance education continues to increase in popularity across disciplines but may especially suit data science majors. Online data science degrees develop computer and information technology skills and prepare graduates to work remotely.
Benefits to earning an undergraduate degree in data science in general include:
In-Demand Skills: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth for the computer and information technology field from 2023-2033. Employers in every sector need workers with advanced technology skills in information security, cloud computing, and virtual data storage.
New Job Opportunities: Bachelor's degree-holders can pursue IT jobs, including computer programmer, computer systems analyst, and information security analyst.
Competitive Salaries: Payscale reports that data scientists earn an average annual salary of $98,380 as of January 2023.
Explore Computer Science Careers
Selecting Your Online Data Science Program
Our ranking of the best data science online degrees presents a great place to begin your search, but candidates should still consider other factors to find their ideal school. Below, we cover some additional criteria:
Accreditation: Any prospective school should hold institutional accreditation, which indicates that the school offers high-quality academics. Attending an accredited institution also makes it easier to get financial aid, transfer credits to other schools, and qualify for graduate school. Some bachelor's in data science degrees may also hold programmatic accreditation from ABET.
Cost/Financial Aid: Students should determine the estimated cost of attendance for each prospective school, including whether the institution offers lower tuition for out-of-state online learners. Financial aid opportunities for data science majors, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, can lower total program costs.
Career Services: The best colleges offer robust career services for students earning data science online degrees. Support may include workshops, resume help, networking opportunities, and job search boards.
Earning Potential: Many schools publicize the average salaries of their students after graduation for prospective students to estimate their earning potential.
Online-Specific Education: Explore each school's pricing model, support options, multimedia inclusion, and online learning platform. Does the school offer a robust online experience?
Concentrations: Some of the best data science undergraduate programs offer specialization options in big data and analytics or project management. Others focus on a common core curriculum. Make sure the program's emphases align with your professional goals.
First-year applicants and transfer students can apply to any of more than 1,000 colleges with Common Application. These candidates do not need to complete separate forms for each school.
Explore Related Programs
Popular Online Data Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Earning Your Bachelor's Degree in Data Science
Depending on the school, every bachelor's degree in data science varies. In most cases, schools offer BS degrees in the field, though some BA degrees exist. A BS focuses more on math and science training, while a BA focuses on the humanities. Most undergraduate programs require full-time students to complete approximately 120 credits over four years, usually taking 15 credits in the fall and spring semesters. Learners can slow down with part-time study or accelerate with summer courses.
Enrollees can also pursue online degrees. These programs often allow learners to study asynchronously or in a self-paced format, which can considerably accelerate degree length. Some programs also encourage students to choose specializations, which can help them fine-tune their training and chart unique education and career paths. Read through the following information to learn more about your study options.
Comparing Bachelor's Degree Options
Aspiring data science learners can access a variety of degree types. While data science remains at the core of all programs, the complementary courses, general education, and electives may change by degree type. Degree type can influence future study opportunities, as well. Therefore, students with specific master's degrees in mind might consider choosing similar bachelor's degrees. The following list details three of the most common bachelor's degrees in data science.
Popular Bachelor's Degree in Data Science Courses
The individual courses in a bachelor's degree in data science vary considerably by program and school. Depending on program goals or faculty specialties, students may enjoy a variety of courses. Learners can further influence their studies through electives and capstone choices, often choosing between theses or final projects. However, some data science courses tend to appear in most programs to offer fundamental training.
The following list highlights some of those programs, though course titles and details may vary between programs.
Data Analysis
In this core course, students learn to organize and analyze big data. They use predictive modelling and cutting-edge analytical tools to help organizations make better operational decisions. In this introductory course, training typically focuses on data distribution and common applications, whereas advanced or concentrated versions look at more specific applications, such as business or financial forecasting.
Data Visualization
Data visualization courses teach students to take data from its source into modeling and processing, and then into mapped visualizations. The training equips students with the skills to present their findings in relatable ways, teaching them how to use some of the most common visualization tools.
Database Systems
This course trains students to understand and use relational database management systems. Enrollees often learn relational algebra and structured query languages for programming and database creation. In addition to working with the latest database applications, some courses may also delve into security and authorization procedures.
Object-Oriented Programming
In this course, students learn to program with object-oriented languages, starting with the principles and syntax and moving into the creation of object-oriented applications. Learners explore how to use programming languages to develop basic algorithms and solve problems.
Data Mining
Data mining courses teach students to find patterns and regularities within various databases. They learn the techniques and applications required to interact with databases, along with methods for cluster analysis. Additionally, some courses delve into techniques for developing forecasts and predictions with the findings.
Pairing Internships With Your Education
While not always available, internships provide students with practical training and outlets for learning application. They can also help students identify their career interests by providing intimate insight into the field and day-to-day tasks. Some programs place great value in internships and make them mandatory for students, specifically in their senior year. In most cases, internships offer college credit and can significantly improve students' career prospects, particularly when they provide relevant industry experience.
Selecting Your Bachelor's Degree in Data Science Program
The right school and program for each student depends on their values. Once learners determine which programs best suit them, they should identify whether they want to study on campus or online. Prospective students should always seek programs with regional accreditation, which assures that an institution meets certain educational standards. Candidates may also consider school size, student-to-teacher ratios, and department faculty and their specializations.
Candidates should carefully consider their program options, finding ones offering concentrations or courses in their specific areas of interest. They should think about each program's composition and length, as well. Admission requirements and standards may also factor into applicants' decisions. Furthermore, aspiring students should weigh program costs and the availability of financial aid before deciding.
In addition to the above components, each student should consider how their decision might impact their career, including each program's extracurricular offerings and career support services. Each school's reputation might influence graduates' employment opportunities, and training could impact earning potential. Learners might also examine each school's alumni network and resources to determine whether it provides the support they need.
Should You Get Your Bachelor's Degree in Data Science Online?
Online programs have changed the university search process. Learners no longer need to limit their search to local schools, because they can complete degrees online from a distance, often with no campus visits. Furthermore, the focus on independent study in data science lends itself to asynchronous delivery, one of the major benefits of online study.
However, online program options create additional considerations for potential enrollees. Learners must identify whether independent online study suits their learning style. Success in online programs requires personal motivation and drive, which on-campus students may not need. Moreover, online degrees may not offer the same level of interactivity as traditional programs. While online degrees provide a flexible, convenient approach to education, students should consider how the format might impact their learning process.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Data Science?
After earning a bachelor's degree in data science, graduates can choose to enter the workforce or continue their education into more advanced degrees or certifications. The following information explores these pathways in more detail, outlining career and educational outlooks and options for graduates.
Career and Salary Outlook for Data Science Graduates
Data science graduates enjoy a variety of promising careers with strong projected growth, high salaries, and robust advancement opportunities. Depending on their chosen pathways and interests, students can enter a wide range of math-focused and computer science professions. Due to the discipline's highly skilled nature, data science careers typically offer salaries exceeding the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for computer scientists, for example, is double the average for all occupations.
In addition to high wages, these professions typically offer exceptional growth in terms of projected employment and individual career advancement. Some available positions offer similar growth to the average career, but mathematical sciences professionals can expect their occupations to grow at more than five times the national average.
To acquire more advanced, higher-paying jobs, learners can pursue further degrees and certifications. The following list examines some specific career pathways available to data science graduates.
| Job Title | Entry Level (0-12 Months) | Early Career (1-4 Years) | Mid-career (5-9 Years) | Experienced (10-19 Years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematicians | $56,000 | $86,000 | $96,000 | $99,000 |
| Computer and Information Scientists | $105,000 | $90,000 | $104,000 | $149,000 |
| Actuaries | $61,000 | $76,000 | $107,000 | $122,000 |
| Financial Analysts | $61,000 | $67,000 | $75,000 | $79,000 |
| Economists | $66,000 | $84,000 | $107,000 | $116,000 |
Source: PayScale
Resources
Professional Organizations for Data Science
Professional organizations provide great resources for students and professionals in a variety of fields, including data science. Learners can use the following organizations to stay current with industry news; to access resources; or to network, train, and find professional development opportunities. The list below highlights some of the best industry organizations for data science students and professionals.
Association of Data Scientists
This association aims to promote a set of industry standards and best practices. It encourages and supports the education of aspiring professionals in the field. It also offers continuing education, leadership training, and career support.
Data Science Association
This association lays out the standards for ethical practice in the data science field and seeks to improve the profession. Members gain access to a large professional network, industry information, and conference benefits.
Association for Information Science and Technology
This association strives to promote the interdisciplinary fields of information science and technology, shaping and setting professional standards and practices. Additionally, the association offers professional support and various career opportunities.
Scholarships for Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science
When seeking a bachelor's degree, financial aid plays an essential role for students. Learners in most disciplines can access federal aid, and the data science field offers access to a variety of program-specific scholarships, as well. The following list outlines some of the best scholarships available.
Popular Online Data Science Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Data Science
What should I major in to be a data scientist?
Data science professionals come from a variety of majors, including data science, computer science, and information systems programs.
What undergraduate degree is best for data scientists?
Depending on their interests, students might find data science or computer science degrees best for them. The former offers more focused data science training, whereas the latter combines this training with technology applications.
What is a BS in data science?
A BS in data science prepares students for entry-level careers in the field, equipping them with the skills to identify patterns in data and use it for projections, forecasting, and predictions.
Is data science a good major?
Data science degrees provide graduates with access to fast-growing, varied, and financially rewarding careers. Students may find the programs challenging, but data science majors enjoy great demand in a variety of industries.
